Munawar Faruqu talks about the scariest day of his life when his son battled a life-threatening illness.
Life often presents unexpected challenges that test our strength and resilience. For comedian Munawar Faruqui, that moment came when his one-and-a-half-year-old son was diagnosed with Kawasaki disease. This rare and serious illness not only tested Munawar emotionally, but also highlighted the importance of financial preparedness and the power of perseverance.
In a candid podcast conversation with Janice Sequeira, Munawar shared the emotional and financial toll of her son’s illness. Kawasaki disease, which inflames blood vessels and can cause serious heart complications, brought Munawar face to face with one of the most difficult periods of his life.
What is Kawasaki disease?
Kawasaki disease is a rare condition that primarily affects children under five years of age. Although the exact cause is unknown, it is believed to be related to an abnormal immune response caused by infections. The disease is serious and, if left untreated, can lead to complications such as coronary artery aneurysms. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to prevent long-term damage.
Kawasaki disease symptoms
•Prolonged fever: High fever that lasts more than five days and does not respond to typical fever medications.
•Skin rashes: Red rashes that may appear on the torso, arms or legs.
•Red eyes: bloodshot eyes without discharge.
•Swollen hands and feet: Often accompanied by redness and, later, peeling of the skin around the tips of the fingers and toes.
•Red, cracked lips and strawberry tongue: Dry, cracked lips and a bright red tongue that resembles the texture of a strawberry.
•Swollen lymph nodes: Enlarged lymph nodes, especially in the neck.
•Irritability and fatigue: Affected children may appear unusually irritable and tired.
A parent’s worst nightmare
Munawar recalled how his son’s health deteriorated within two to three days. Despite initial efforts to treat the symptoms at home, the condition worsened, prompting a visit to the hospital. There, doctors diagnosed Kawasaki disease and explained that three critical injections, each costing 25,000 rupees, were needed immediately. The total cost of ₹75,000 was daunting, especially when Munawar only had ₹700 to ₹800 in his wallet at that time.
“The situation still scares me to this day,” Munawar shared. He maintained his composure in front of the doctor, assuring them that he would arrange the funds. However, when he came out, the gravity of the situation hit him hard. “I was paralyzed for 30 or 40 minutes, unable to think. “It was the hardest moment of my life,” he admitted.
A race against time
With no time to waste, Munawar made more than ten frantic calls to friends and acquaintances. In the end, a former workplace lent him the necessary amount. Munawar said he traveled to Mumbai Central to collect the money and returned to the hospital within three hours. Although the injections were administered on time, the experience left him grappling with the burden of borrowing money. “Although I was grateful, I couldn’t smile because it wasn’t my money,” he confessed.
This life-changing episode taught Munawar the importance of financial preparedness. “After that day, I made sure that my finances were always sufficient to deal with emergencies,” he said, emphasizing the need for a safety net during unforeseen situations.
From pain to perspective
Munawar’s candor about his struggle sheds light on the profound emotional and financial impact of rare diseases on families. Her story is a testament to the resilience needed to face life’s most challenging moments and the importance of support systems during crises.
The comedian’s journey underscores a universal truth: parents will do everything they can for the well-being of their children. Munawar’s ability to find strength in the midst of adversity resonates deeply and reminds us of the remarkable capacity of the human spirit to endure.
Beyond the struggles
Known for his sharp wit and humor, Munawar Faruqui first rose to fame through his stand-up performances and live shows. His appearance on the reality show Lock Upp, hosted by Kangana Ranaut, further solidified his place in the entertainment industry, where he emerged as the winner of the show’s debut season.
However, this episode in his life is a stark reminder that even those who make us laugh have their own battles to fight. It shows a side of Munawar that goes beyond comedy: the love, determination and unwavering resolve of a father.
